Solapur district farmer Somnath Jokare has been meticulously taking care of the plants, including the application of fungicides to protect the fruit and intercropping with onions and peanuts over a three-year period
Somnath Jokare from Maharashtra’s Solapur cultivates the NMK 1 Golden variety has proven to be highly profitable, yielding substantial returns. Jokare began his experiment with Golden Custard apple in 2020.
The NMK 1 Golden variety is known for its resilience to low water conditions and extended shelf life, which has been a game-changer. Each fruit weighs between 500 and 600 grams, and the hardiness of the fruit protects it against pests and diseases. This has also contributed to its success.
Jokare has been meticulously taking care of the plants, including the application of fungicides to protect the fruit and intercropping with onions and peanuts over a three-year period.
In the first year, Jokare earned Rs 2 lakhs by selling custard apples at Krishi Upaj Bazar Samiti in Solapur. The fruit was sold for Rs 50 to Rs 60 per kilogram. Along with Solapur district of Maharashtra, custard apple is produced in large quantities in Beed, Jalgaon, Ahmednagar, Nashik, Satara and Bhandara districts.
Encouraged by these results, Jokare anticipates even greater profits in the present year. Jokare’s success underscores the potential of innovative farming techniques and careful selection of crop varieties in overcoming traditional agricultural challenges.
His story serves as an inspiration for fellow farmers facing economic hardships, demonstrating that strategic experimentation and adaptation can lead to impressive financial outcomes.
